Route Overview and
Shuttle
A word about maps!
The maps and route descriptions on this site describe only one of several put-in options for the Coulonge. Which one you choose will depends on the time available, the kind of paddling you crave, and whether your pockets are deep enough to pay for a shuttle, or better yet, fly-in service. Some of the other road-accessible options are:
Put-in Distance Lac Jim 40K to Grandes Chutes Coulonge Rapides Enrages 65 K to Grandes Chutes Coulonge Lac Bryson 110K to Grandes Chutes Coulonge Lac Pomponne 190K to Grandes Chutes Coulonge Lac Barrage 255K to Grandes Chutes Coulonge
The K150 Put-In
Fort Coulonge, your starting point, is about 135k from Ottawa along Quebec highway 148. Going west on the 148 past Fort Coulonge, about 3k past the covered bridge, you'll see an official, blue sign (indicating a right turn) for the Chutes Coulonge. About 5 k along that road is a turnoff to the left (north) for Jim Lake.
There are several relatively safe spots to leave your take-out vehicle, but I'd strongly suggest paying the $5/day fee at the golf course (see take-out map) to have it securely tucked away, just a few hundred feet from the clubhouse, where you'll likely wind up with a cold beer in your hand upon return.
The Jim Lake Road can be a wild ride. Make sure your vehicle has good shocks, tires, and a spare. And pay close attention to your gas gauge -- there's no pit stop along the way.
There are kilometer markings every couple of K along the route. Although a great many have been toppled over or washed away, enough are still standing to mark your progress along the route. Not much chance of getting lost though. Just don't leave the road till you come to the "obvious Y".
This "obvious Y" was the subject of some debate and consternation as we imagined every overgrown cart trail our missed turn-off. In retrospect, however, it really was obvious. Just keep a close eye on your mileage and you really can't miss.
Tuck your vehicle away in the bushes, and lock your gas cap. (This last hint from locals, learned from experience). Vehicle theft is not a serious concern, but fuel's a valuable commodity this far from the nearest pump ...